Moscow to Cut Mobile Services on May 5, 7, and 9: Details of Network Restrictions for Holiday Period

Mobile Network Restrictions in Moscow

According to Главком: Authorities in Moscow plan to impose restrictions on mobile networks during the May holidays, specifically on May 5, 7, and 9. These limitations will affect mobile internet, voice calls, and SMS services. Rather than being limited to the city center, they will apply across the entire area within the Moscow Ring Road (MKAD). According to major operators such as Beeline and Rostelecom, residents in suburban districts may also experience delays in message delivery. The BBC reports that this time, the government might even block access to socially significant resources like public services and messaging apps, which typically remain available during previous shutdowns.

Celebrations and Security Measures

The first large-scale parade rehearsal is scheduled for May 5, followed by the final rehearsal on May 7, and the main celebration on May 9. In 2026, the parade on Red Square will be held in a reduced format, featuring only marching columns and aviation. This change is driven by heightened security measures due to terrorist activity.

It is worth noting that on the night of May 4, Moscow and the surrounding region came under attack from drones. One explosion occurred on Mosfilmovskaya Street, damaging a residential complex called Mosfilmovsky. On the 36th floor of the building, walls were blown out in three rooms. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that these measures are being implemented to 'minimize danger' in the context of 'terrorist activity.'

These mobile network restrictions in Moscow during the May holidays are part of broader security efforts aimed at addressing terrorist threats, which have become more pressing following the recent drone attack. This situation may indicate tighter control over communications and information flows amid rising tensions. Authorities are striving to maintain order during the celebrations, taking into account potential risks that could arise in such circumstances.

These mobile service limitations in Moscow reflect a broader trend of increased restrictions on communication channels across the country. For instance, recent measures have seen the banning of Starlink and mobile internet cuts in numerous regions, highlighting the government's intensified control over information access amid ongoing security concerns.